Kentucky and Virginia Resolutions
Nullification: Defending Liberty from Federal Tyranny
In 1798, when President John Adams and the Federalist Congress passed the Alien and Sedition Acts, many believed them to be a violation of the federal government’s clearly defined powers outlined in the U.S. Constitution. Shortly after its passage, several private...
Thomas Jefferson on the Constitution and Immigration
A number of cities across the U.S. have declared themselves “sanctuary cities” and refuse to assist with federal immigration enforcement. A bill working its way through the California state assembly would effectively make it a “sanctuary...
James Madison: Four Steps to Stop Federal Programs
Writing in Federalist #46, James Madison provided a 4-step strategy to bring down federal programs, without waiting on the federal government to limit its own power. Here’s what he had to say in the letter, The Influence of the State and Federal Governments Compared:...
The Kentucky and Virginia Resolutions: Introduction to Nullification
The Constitution placed strict limits on the federal government. What do we do when it oversteps its bounds? Imagine that Congress passes, and the president signs, a series of laws granting the executive branch the power to deport non-citizens or immigrants from...